The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko brings new luxury to Japan

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, part of Marriott International, has expanded its luxury portfolio of hotels in the Asia–Pacific with the opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko, in Tochigi, Japan.

Set within a UNESCO World Heritage Site just two and a half hours north of Tokyo, the resort brings a new level of luxury to the significant destination.

"Following much anticipation surrounding its debut, we are thrilled to finally open the doors to The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko and to continue the growth of the luxury segment in Japan," says Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific (excluding Greater China), Marriott International.

"Today marks an extremely monumental day for our brand and the entire company as we set the bar in luxury travel, embracing the new normal, while consistently instilling confidence in travel amongst all of our guests."

Located alongside Lake Chūzenji with views of Mount Nantai, the property is accessible by rail or car. Nikko, and the surrounding area, has long been known as a holy place and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the cultural, religious and architectural significance of its decorated shrines and temples.

Travellers can effortlessly enjoy the surroundings of the many natural treasures, including the Kegon Falls, Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. The hotel provides a variety of outdoor activities – think trekking through Nikko National Park and witnessing sacred ceremonial dances, among others.

It also offers a selection of excursions ranging from cycling through protected wetlands, strolling the centuries-old sanctuaries to meditating under waterfalls. Guests even have the chance to master the Japanese skill of furoshiki (fabric) wrapping and attend a temple fire ceremony.

"It is the first of its kind to be located in the sublime mountain region of Nikko." – Jennie Toh

Each of the resort’s 94 guest rooms and suites features a private balcony that flows seamlessly into a lounge area, offering an expanded space for guests to take in the captivating scenery that surrounds the hotel.

The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko is home to four simplistically named food and beverage outlets; there’s all-day dining at The Japanese Restaurant, while Lakehouse provides tranquil views and Western-inspired, hearty fare. For drinks, the hotel welcomes guests to The Bar, which specialises in cocktails, and The Lobby Lounge makes for relaxing surrounds in which to unwind and enjoy light bites.

The property also contains a spa with four treatment rooms. It’s the first Ritz-Carlton to feature a hot springs experience in the Japanese onsen tradition. Guests are invited to enjoy the indoor and open-air hot spring baths, filled with therapeutic thermal waters drawn from the springs of nearby Yumoto Onsen. Visitors are also welcomed to participate in a nightly meditation.

Upon departure, travellers will be gifted with a sacred omamori (Japanese amulet) as a keepsake memento and blessing for safe travel.

"We are thrilled … to offer an elevated level of luxury," says Jennie Toh, Vice President, Rooms, Loyalty and Brand Operations, Asia Pacific, Marriott International. "It is the first of its kind to be located in the sublime mountain region of Nikko."

"Our ladies and gentlemen at The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko are looking forward to welcoming guests and providing enriching, authentic experiences that truly embrace the local culture and destination."

Japan is set to ease restrictions on business travel from July 2020. The country will start to welcome back visitors from nations that have recorded relatively low coronavirus cases, such as Vietnam and Thailand. Negotiations with Australia and New Zealand are underway.